What legal requirements do I need to follow to start a small business in Ohio?
To start a small business in Ohio, there are several legal requirements you must follow, including:
- Choose a legal structure for your business: The type of legal structure you choose will determine the legal and tax responsibilities of your business. The most common types of legal structures are sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, and corporation.
- Register your business: You must register your business with the Ohio Secretary of State's office to operate legally in Ohio. This registration process will provide your business with a unique identifier called a Business Identification Number (BIN). Depending on your business type and location, you may also need to obtain additional permits or licenses.
- Obtain necessary taxation and employment documents: Depending on the nature of your business, you will likely need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and register for state and local taxes. You should also familiarize yourself with Ohio's employment laws, which include minimum wage and workers' compensation requirements.
- Protect your intellectual property: If your business involves creating or innovating products, services or technology, it is important to protect your intellectual property.
- Obtain adequate insurance: Ohio law requires many businesses to carry certain types of insurance, such as workers' compensation insurance and commercial liability insurance.
- Comply with federal and state regulations: There are several federal and state regulations that businesses must comply with, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Please note, the legal requirements for starting and operating a small business in Ohio are complex and subject to change. It is recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney to ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal laws.